Name: Homemade Goldfish Crackers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-488662H36M58S
Total time: PT-488662H36M58S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, finely grated; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon celery salt; ½ teaspoon onion powder; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, chilled; 4–5 tablespoons cold water; Goldfish cookie cutter (optional)

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These homemade Goldfish crackers are cheesy, crispy, and way more flavorful than the store-bought version. Made with real sharp cheddar cheese and a handful of pantry spices, they’re a fun snack that both kids and adults will love. Perfect for lunchboxes, party trays, or just as a crunchy treat, these crackers are simple to bake at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Made with real sharp cheddar cheese for maximum flavor
Crispy, golden, and snackable—just like the classic version
Free of preservatives and artificial ingredients
Fun baking project to do with kids
Customizable with different cheeses and seasonings

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, finely grated
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon celery salt
½ teaspoon onion powder
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, chilled
4–5 tablespoons cold water
Goldfish cookie cutter (optional)

Directions

Finely shred the cheddar cheese and place it in a food processor. Pulse until the cheese is very finely chopped.
Add flour, salt, sugar, baking powder, paprika, celery salt, and onion powder. Pulse until combined.
Add butter and 4 tablespoons cold water. Pulse until mixture begins to form a dough. If too crumbly, add more water a little at a time.
Transfer dough to a work surface. Knead lightly until it comes together. Divide into two 1-inch-thick discs. Cover and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
On a floured surface, roll each dough disc into a rectangle about 9–10″ by 11″, roughly ⅛” thick.
Use a goldfish-shaped cookie cutter (or any small cutter) to cut out crackers. Place on prepared baking sheets. Sprinkle with salt if desired. Re-roll dough scraps and repeat.
Bake for 14–16 minutes, until bottoms are lightly golden.
Let cool completely on the baking sheet before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 80–100 small crackers, depending on the size of your cutter.
Preparation time: 20 minutes (plus 30–60 minutes chilling)
Cooking time: 14–16 minutes per batch
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Use white cheddar, parmesan, or pepper jack for a flavor twist.
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy version.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or “everything bagel” seasoning before baking.
Make different shapes using fun cookie cutters.
Use whole wheat flour for a heartier cracker.

Storage/Reheating

Store crackers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
For extra crispness, reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 3–4 minutes.
Freeze baked crackers in an airtight bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I make these without a food processor?

Yes, you can mix the dough by hand or with a pastry cutter, but the texture may be less fine.

Do I need a goldfish cutter?

No, any small cookie cutter will work—or simply cut the dough into squares with a knife.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 2 days before rolling and baking.

Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before rolling out.

How do I make the crackers extra crispy?

Roll the dough thinly (⅛ inch or less) and bake until the bottoms are just golden. Let cool completely on the tray.

What cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar is traditional, but aged white cheddar, parmesan, or gruyère also work well.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Are these kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids love helping cut out shapes, and the crackers are a healthier homemade snack.

How can I make them more flavorful?

Increase the spices, add cayenne for heat, or mix in herbs like rosemary or thyme.

Do they taste exactly like store-bought Goldfish?

They’re similar but richer in flavor since they’re made with real cheese and no additives.

Conclusion

Homemade Goldfish crackers are a fun, cheesy, and crunchy snack you can easily make from scratch. With real sharp cheddar and customizable seasonings, they taste better than store-bought and are perfect for both kids and adults. Whether you’re baking them for a party, lunchboxes, or a weekend project, these crackers are sure to be a hit.

Maggie